Every year more people are killed at work than in wars. Most don’t die of mystery ailments, or in tragic “accidents”. They die because an employer decided their safety just wasn’t that important a priority. International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) commemorates those workers.
What is IWMD?
Every year on April 28th, all around the world the trade union movement unites to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (#IWMD20).
We remember those who have lost their lives at work, or from work-related injury and diseases. We renew our efforts to organise collectively to prevent more deaths, injuries and disease as a result of work.
Workers Memorial Day is commemorated throughout the world and is officially recognised by the UK Government.
We remember those we have lost. We organise in their memory.
Theme for 2020: Coronavirus
The Coronavirus Pandemic affects every worker regardless of sector or locality. Tens of thousands of workers worldwide have died. More have fallen ill or continue to go to work risking their lives. Many workers are still attending work ill-equipped and without necessary safety measures in place.
We could not have a starker reminder of the important role of trade union health and safety reps in saving and protecting workers’ lives, than the current crisis we are living through.
We remember those we have lost. We organise in their memory.
CWU specific events can be found here.
How can you take part?
Workers’ Memorial Day 2020 public events for April 28th won’t be possible because of measures to contain Coronavirus/Covid-19. But marking International Workers Memorial Day has never been more important for workers lives and health and those of our families and communities. The TUC has suggested a range of ways to mark this year’s Workers Memorial Day https://www.tuc.org.uk/international-workers-memorial-day-iwmd
Hazards Campaign have requested we circulate the Hazards Campaign Call to Action and Briefing http://www.hazardscampaign.org.uk/
social media graphics: http://www.hazardscampaign.org.uk/blog/hazards-campaign-28-april-social-media-campaigning-graphics
REMEMBER THE DEAD AND FIGHT FOR THE LIVING